Giving Societies
Cavanaugh Council
Members of the Cavanaugh Council share the bold vision of University President Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C. Their extraordinary commitment helps advance Notre Dame’s mission to be a truly great Catholic university that offers an outstanding education marked by academic excellence, informed by faith, infused with a moral vision, and inspired by the highest ideals.
Generous annual unrestricted gifts of $50,000 made by members of the Cavanaugh Council give Fr. Jenkins the flexibility to meet critical needs, support strategic initiatives, and face unexpected challenges. Cavanaugh Council members' annual contributions enable Fr. Jenkins to:
- Give the gift of Notre Dame to students by way of financial aid
- Advance Notre Dame's Catholic mission
- Enhance the undergraduate student experience
- Support academics by expanding student research opportunities and hiring world-class faculty
- Provide leadership the flexibility to address Notre Dame's emerging priorities and critical needs
Cavanaugh Council Impact
Since its founding 180 years ago by Rev. Edward F. Sorin, C.S.C., Notre Dame has sought to be a force for good in the world—a great Catholic institution with a mission to make God known, loved, and served.
During the 2022-2023 academic year, members of the Cavanaugh Council contributed $27 million in critical funding that Fr. Jenkins was able to direct toward efforts that continue to align with and realize Fr. Sorin’s vision. Through Cavanaugh Council gifts, students can pursue their dreams, engage with world-class faculty, and learn and grow in a faith-based community. It is a gift that changes the trajectory of students’ lives.
Giving Options
Members of the Cavanaugh Council make annual gifts through a variety of giving options, including charitable investments in the Notre Dame endowment pool.
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Annual Gift | Make an annual gift of $50,000 through credit card, cash, wire transfer or stock gift. You can also make a perpetual gift (quarterly or monthly) online. |
| Leadership Pledge |
Sign a leadership pledge and memorialize and commemorate your commitment to support the University across the next two to four years. |
| Endowment for Excellence | Create an Endowment for Excellence for Mission and Leadership to become a Cavanaugh Council member for your lifetime. |
| Donor-Advised Fund | Make a grant recommendation to Notre Dame through your donor-advised fund. |
Membership Experiences
As part of Notre Dame’s most exclusive leadership annual giving program, members of the Cavanaugh Council have access to substantive and meaningful experiences as well as regular engagement with Fr. Jenkins, University leadership, and students. Members are invited to participate in the following:
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Exclusive Events
Members are invited to participate in special events throughout the year. These events historically have included opportunities like a D.C. Symposium hosted by Fr. Jenkins—which offers opportunities to learn more about the critical issues facing our world from respected authorities in government and the media in various historical venues across Washington, D.C.—and events in the fall with University leaders, including Fr. Jenkins and other members of the President’s Leadership Council. Members also have the opportunity to interact with Cavanaugh Council and President’s Circle Scholars.
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Conference Calls with Fr. Jenkins and University Leaders
Members of the Cavanaugh Council are invited to a conference call every June and December to hear directly from Fr. Jenkins and another member of the senior leadership team regarding University priorities and funding allocations. During these calls, members also have the opportunity to ask questions in an open discussion format.
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Mentorship Program
During the summer, interested members of the Cavanaugh Council are paired with current students whose career goals and internship opportunities align with the member’s own career path. This program affords members the unique opportunity to engage with and directly affect the formation of a Notre Dame student. Through this initiative, member-mentors offer the wisdom of their own experience, guidance, and introductions to their respective professional network.
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Personalized Concierge Service
Special ombudsman/concierge service for University events and special needs provided by Cavanaugh Council and President’s Circle Team.
Have questions? We have answers!
The Cavanaugh Council team is committed to advancing the mission of Notre Dame and is eager to help you with any questions you have about the impact of the Cavanaugh Council, giving options, or membership experiences.